Common Sense Media Review
By Monique Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Stirring film about Black WACs in WWII has violence, racism.
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The Six Triple Eight
What's the Story?
THE SIX TRIPLE EIGHT dramatizes the true story of the only Women's Army Corps unit made up of women of color that was deployed overseas during World War II. Led by Major Adams (Kerry Washington) and Captain Campbell (Milauna Jackson), the unit helps keep soldiers' morale up by sorting out the Army's postal service in a record amount of time while also facing racism and sexism from their higher-ups. One of the soldiers, Lena Derricott (Ebony Obsidian), also has a personal mission: finding out what happened to her betrothed (Gregg Sulkin), who died in battle.
Is It Any Good?
This drama—which honors the story of the women behind the real Six Triple Eight—is easily writer-director Tyler Perry's best film to date. The Six Triple Eight has the kind of scope and gravitas that many people who've seen his prior films wouldn't be likely to expect, and it's extremely appreciated. Washington brings a grounding, dignified force to the film as Major Adams, and, as her right-hand woman Captain Campbell, Jackson offers a maternal yet stern air of leadership for the soldiers. Obsidian is also great as Lena, who wants to find out what happened to her first love, Abram David (Sulkin), but quickly discovers what it means to be a true soldier.
Frankly, what's annoying is that this film makes it clear that Perry could have put a better foot forward well before now. His more mediocre work has been infuriating to fans who want to see him succeed artistically. Hopefully the success of The Six Triple Eight will compel him to make more films that are both engaging and creatively inspiring.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the real history behind the Six Triple Eight. How accurate do you think it is to what actually happened? How could you find out more?
How do the characters deal with racism and sexism? Which of them demonstrate perseverance, integrity, self-control, and teamwork?
Why does Lena decide to enlist, and how does the unit get deployed?
Movie Details
- In theaters : December 6, 2024
- On DVD or streaming : December 20, 2024
- Cast : Kerry Washington , Ebony Obsidian , Susan Sarandon , Sam Waterston
- Director : Tyler Perry
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Actor(s) , Bisexual Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Netflix
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : History
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Courage , Empathy , Integrity , Perseverance , Self-control , Teamwork
- Run time : 127 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : language including racial slurs, thematic material and some war violence.
- Awards : Academy Award - Other Category Nominee , Golden Globe - Golden Globe Award Nominee , NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Winner
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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